A heated debate erupted in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday as opposition parties, including Congress and DMK, strongly objected to the approval of a sustainable energy project near the India-Pakistan border.
Congress leader Manish Tiwari raised concerns about the project's proximity to the border, emphasizing the need to balance energy security with national security. He pointed out that the hybrid renewable energy project is set to extend within one kilometer of the border, whereas security protocols mandate that critical infrastructure should be at least 10 kilometers away from the International Border. He also questioned whether any special exemptions had been granted for this project.
Defending the decision, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, stated that all proposals undergo rigorous scrutiny by central, state, and relevant authorities before receiving necessary approvals and licenses. He reiterated that the government prioritizes domestic renewable energy production while ensuring compliance with security regulations.
However, Congress members found the response unsatisfactory and raised slogans in the Well of the House, expressing concerns over national security. They, along with DMK leaders, staged a walkout in protest.
The controversy extends beyond this project, as Congress has accused the government of relaxing border security norms to benefit certain private business groups. The opposition alleges that such decisions compromise national security for corporate profits, further fueling political tensions.
